Angie Conn dot Com

Received this in an email today…

Before 1998, children’s plastic toys and teethers were often made with a chemical called diisononyl phthalate, used as a softening agent. Although there has not been a comprehensive study performed to determine how much of the chemical leeches out of a baby’s toy when chewed, or how much of the chemical a baby must ingest to pose a health risk, the U.S. government asked manufacturers to voluntarily stop using phthalates in toys and teethers. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) also recommends that parents not give their children toys or teethers made with this chemical. Laboratory studies indicate that in high doses, phthalates damage the liver, kidneys and other organs in mice and rats. Other studies indicate that high doses may cause liver tumors in mice and rats.

Manufacturers who stopped using phthalates in teethers in early 1999 include ArcoToys, Chicco, Disney, Evenflo, The First Years, Gerber, Hasbro (Playskool), Little Tikes, Mattel (Fisher-Price), Safety 1st, Sassy, Shelcore Toys and Tyco Preschool.

Look for labels on packaging stating that the toy or teether is phthalate-free, and discard any if you are unsure whether they contain phthalates. You may also choose teethers made from other materials, such as latex or silicone, which are durable, easy to clean, and will soothe baby’s sore gums.

Note: None of the pacifiers or nipples currently sold are made with phthalates.